Procedures for Obtaining a Driving License in Israel

Although he survived the initial impact, the car was destroyed beyond repair. Tragically, his death occurred when another vehicle traveling on the same road collided with his stationary car, crushing him.

In light of this incident, we wish to provide important information for those planning to visit Israel and either buy or drive a vehicle. Please read the following guidelines carefully:

Driving on the Left: Israel is a left-hand drive country. Those who are accustomed to driving on the right, as in Sri Lanka, must take extra care and practice driving on the left side of the road. We strongly recommend practicing under the supervision of an experienced driver to ensure safety.

ge Requirement: The legal age for obtaining a driving license in Israel ranges from 17 to 75 years. Individuals must meet this age requirement to apply for a driving license.

International Driving License: If you hold a valid internationally recognized driving license from a foreign country, you are permitted to drive in Israel under that license for a period of one year.

Certification for Sri Lankan Drivers: To obtain a light vehicle license in Israel, Sri Lankan nationals must have their local driving license certified by the Sri Lankan Embassy. To do so, visit the embassy with your original driving license and passport for the necessary documentation.

Driving License for Specific Professions: For those employed in agriculture, construction, or nursing services, it is essential to obtain a valid driving license for operating vehicles related to these professions, even if the employer provides permission to use the vehicle. Additionally, it is crucial to have proper insurance coverage for the vehicle and health insurance for the driver.

Traffic Violations and Fines: Traffic violations in Israel are monitored by electronic cameras placed along the roads. If you commit an offense, the vehicle owner will be notified of the fine, which must be paid within a specified period. Failure to pay the fine on time will result in additional interest charges. Outstanding fines will also be taken into consideration when renewing vehicle licenses or transferring ownership of a vehicle.

Designated Lanes and Fines: Certain lanes on Israeli roads are designated for public transportation only. These lanes are reserved for buses, taxis, ambulances, fire trucks, and, in exceptional cases, police and military vehicles. Driving in these lanes without permission carries a fine of 2,000 shekels (approximately 170,000 Sri Lankan rupees). Other traffic violations, such as illegal parking, disobeying traffic signals, or parking in spaces reserved for disabled individuals, also incur significant fines.

There is a wealth of information available in English regarding driving licenses and traffic rules in Israel. We urge you to follow the official guidelines and avoid paying intermediaries for assistance in obtaining a driving license.

For further details, please refer to the relevant authorities or contact the Sri Lankan Embassy in Israel.